Statement from the Mayor: Local Government Reforms

Local councils across New Zealand are facing a wave of major reforms, including the Local Water Done Well (LWDW) initiative, the introduction of rates capping, Emergency Management Act, Resource Management Act (RMA) reforms, and changes to building control authorities. The scale and speed of these changes are unlike anything seen in history.

The Government itself has stated that the RMA reforms and council reorganisation agenda represent the biggest change to local councils since 1989. However, while the 1989 transition was made over four years, councils have been given just 76 days to submit on this current proposal. This compressed timeframe raises real concerns about the ability of councils and communities to fully consider, respond to the impacts and even consider if all this is doable.

Implementing multiple major reforms simultaneously carries risks for service delivery, community wellbeing, and local democracy. Councils need time and resources to adapt, consult, and ensure that changes work for their communities. It should be highlighted that the Government has no budget for these transition activities.

Under the new (rates capping) rates band, your annual rates notice should fall within the set target range of 2 to 4%, but this does not include three waters (water, wastewater, and stormwater) costs. These will be billed separately and are not subject to the rates band and will reflect the true cost of providing safe and reliable and compliant drinking water to our community.

Waimate District Council will work with the community, LGNZ and other councils to advocate for flexibility, common-sense exemptions, and a more realistic approach to reform.

Waimate District Council is committed to keeping our community informed and advocating for your interests. We urge the Government to provide councils and communities with the time and support needed to navigate these changes successfully.

We will share more details as they are made available.